SINULOG 2017 is just a week away- by now Mango Avenue is pretty much filled with bandaritas, establishments everywhere are playing the famous Sinulog theme song on repeat while tourists & locals are filling up their weekend itinerary with lots of fun activities.
For the 20 something tourist (or local), you’re probably asking yourself what’s there to do on such a festive weekend other than the grand parade itself. So just to help you put everything in order, here are a few ideas of where to go, what to do and who to wear for SINULOG 2017!
Filthy project has done it again! Year after year, Filthy Project has won Cebuano party goers over with their eye catching designs and this years’ release is no exception!
Together with Lee Casas, 2017’s design and tagline “Vibe with the Tribe” is lively, refreshing and not to mention inviting enough to get everyone in the festive mood.
Wear it alone, as a couple or as a group for maximum enjoyment, just remember to party safe and to always remember the true essence of the feast of the Senyor Sto. Niño.
I’m at it again, tab shopping instead of window shopping and I have to admit, this selection has by far been my favorite!
I found myself browsing through StyleWethis time and I’ve developed a particular fondness for their designer section which is full of trendy, versatile and essential closet picks.
Honestly, I don’t really know what my “style” is but lately I’ve been leaning more towards basics and comfortable pieces because I’ve been working a lot more than I typically have over the past few months. Being able to move with ease is my topmost priority now and these pieces are perfect for the sudden lifestyle shift. PLUS, I could totally travel in these pieces, too!
There’s a certain sense of anxiety and liberation when it comes to getting waxed. I’ve been waxed “down there” before and let me tell you, every.single.time I go to a new place my mind goes to a million different places. So for this post, I’ve decided to write down a few honest thoughts I’ve had before getting a Brazilian wax and some truthful truths to make you feel better about it if you’ve been thinking about it but never had the guts to do it.
Thought # 1:
“What if I smell?”
Comforting fact:
Hey Sugar hands you wet wipes before the session even begins together with a paper pad that goes under you for hygienic purposes so you don’t have to worry about anything.
Thought # 2
“Do I have to do any pre- waxing activities to make it easier?”
Comforting fact:
Pain wise, probably not. If you can handle pain, you can but if you can’t then you’re just gonna have to be a trooper! But… I do prefer to trim just a little bit to make the process a little faster but don’t cut TOO short, you still want there to be enough space for the wax to hold on to.
Thought # 3
“Isn’t it weird to have another person in that… region?”
Comforting fact:
Waxing is a profession so basically, you’re not the ONLY person your therapist has waxed- it’s as normal to them as it is for an OB to see a baby coming out of a person so don’t stress about it too much. To ease the tension though, you can always come in the first time to get another service (check other services below) and see how you like your handler for your next private session.
Thought # 4
“I’m still towards the end of my (.). What if I drip?”
Comforting fact:
Well, you can’t go until after a week after your TOM anyways so go home, get some rest and come back when everything is clear.
Waxing of certain body parts is often times taboo in our rather conservative country but there shouldn’t be any shame in taking care of yourself so don’t be ashamed to bare it all.
If there’s one thing that money cannot buy, it’s service and Hey Sugar truly offered me one of the best pampering sessions by far with their super accommodating and well trained staff & clean facilities.
They are open at Ayala Center Cebu, SM Seaside & SM City Cebu.
For more details and promotions, follow them here!
Banker stripes have made an exceptional comeback in the later parts of 2016 and now, 2017. In fact, I talked about how to wear them and style them in my 2017 Fashion Trends Video here.
Although banker stripes were made popular in an office setting, it doesn’t mean you need to look like you work at a 9-5 job. A cute, casual were to wear a structured tunic like this is to pair them with short shorts and dressy sandals.
If I could change anything about this top, I would probably tuck it in and throw in a cute belt or probably opt for a shorter top. Til the next time I wear this top then. In the meantime, I hope this look is something you can imitate in the near future!
When caught between the crossroads of having to give up wearing shorts on a daily basis and not wanting to wear pants, I found refuge in culottes.
I admit to always being at least 10 months behind trends as culottes have been a big deal for at least the past year or so but no regrets, me and my half pants/ half shorts are now inseparable!
Styling plain and solid culottes are no brainers but when it comes to printed ones that are made of a stiffer material, it can be quite a challenge. There first time I wore these were here and now I’m back and I think I like this look a lot better.
Looking back at the previous looks’ photos and these, I guess I prefer this boxier silhouette more because 1. it masks my huge arms and 2. it actually feels like something I can run around in the whole day.
If you’re wondering where I am and what I was doing in these photos, I was actually running around and sweating the whole day at my brother’s family day.
Super excited to ring in the year 2017 mostly because the fashion & make up trends are so enticing, it’ll be hard to stay away!
Together with Angela Morales, we put together a quick vlog about the up and coming trends for the year to come.
Hope you enjoy it!
Also, please do take the time to like and subscribe to our respective channels. We’ve got a lot in store for next year and your love and support would mean soo much to us!
We all have something to be grateful for this year whether if it’s the opportunity to share your thoughts to the world, to be kind to one another, to be of service, to provide others with a wonderful experience or to even just be alive! This year, Air Asia shares with us a heartfelt reminder of the things we ought to be grateful for and their thank you’s for being able to provide us with a wonderful traveling experience through their world- class service of the world’s best low- cost airline.
I would also like to take this opportunity to share 12 things that I am more than thankful for from the year 2016…
Being able to have a voice.
I am just one tiny person in this vast universe but through blogging and now, vlogging, I have the opportunity to share my thoughts; ideas & talents with the world. I never thought that my opinion or skills would be appreciated or yearned for but through your emails, comments, likes, shares & so much more, I feel like I am someone in this big bad world and that feels so great!
My favorites entries this year revolved around my personal struggles, realizations and experiences- things that I were scared to post online but surprisingly, the ones that garnered your love and appreciation. Here are a few:
I have been blessed with the gift of family & friends who have supported me all the way. Sure, I get teased a lot for being a “blogger” but they’re not just there for me when I need my photos or videos taken but most especially when it comes to being a shoulder I can cry on, designated drivers when I’m too drunk to function (yes, it’s happened!) and fulfilling my perpetual needs to discover the world.
I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for these people and I might not be able to name all of you but do know that you make my life so much better just because of your existence!
3. The Issatalks book.
Issatalks is and will always be my firstborn child. My blog is like a best friend, a sponge, an extension of who I am and sometimes, the Issa I wish I could show the world. This year Paolo gifted me with a hardbound copy of my blog entries from 2011- 2015 (but he promises to print the rest. hehe) as a way for me and us to remember our relationship when we lose our way. It’s been a rough (<- biggest understatement of the year!) for us but we’re stronger than ever and this book is more than just a reminder, it’s a dream come true. I can’t wait for the rest of the entries to be printed for my future library! ❤
4. New experiences.
2016 was a year of self realization, actualization and just finding out who I wanted to be and figuring out how to become that person. Along with this mantra, came a lot of wonderful experiences whether through travel, the people I surrounded myself with and just the things I did.
I moved back to the city, I joined more events, put myself out there some more and ventured into a new creative outlet- YOUTUBE.
5. Being under CPA MCN Adober’s Studio.
Gosh, it feels awesome to say it- I’m a Kapamilya! It’s been sort of a slow year for me in terms of vlogging as I’m still really trying to figure out what kind of content I want on my channel but given the circumstances, I am still blessed beyond comprehension as my craft and potential has been recognized by a network that breeds talent- ABS CBN. How many people get to say their under ABS CBN? A lot. lol. But still, I’m one of them!
6. Finding a support system in this industry.
A lot of you must think that being in the blogging/ vlogging industry is so “ma-showbiz” but it’s actually not the case. Sure, we have our moments, like every other group does but for the most part, we’re all just a bunch of normal, semi-crazy, insanely passionate people who share the same dreams and goals and try to help each other out!
I’ve found my rightful place in this world with my Cebu Fashion Bloggersand Adober’s Studiofamily. I’m at peace, I’m at home and gosh, I couldn’t ask for another support system like them!
7. Being able to work with different brands.
Gosh, I worked with so many brands and establishments this year sometimes I have trouble keeping up! It’s been such a hectic year and thinking about it now, I don’t even understand how I had the time to sulk and have moments of sadness. -.- I was given so many opportunities this year and I am grateful for each and everyone of them. I might not be able to name all of my favorites, but here’s to trying!
8. Being able to work with different photographers.
Honestly, what would my instagram feed and blog photos be without awesome photographers? Thank you for allowing me to be the subject of your photos, guys. I can’t wait for more collaborations in the coming year!
Blanche, you’ve taken a break from blogging to welcome a wonderful life form into this crazy world but before your baby, you brought life to a world I never knew of before- CRAZY HAIR COLORS. I want to thank you and Angelique for introducing me to something that has brought me out of my comfort zone and has given me so much fun this year. If it weren’t for you, my hair would be alive, for one (haha), but dull and untaken care of. So thank you, I miss you and please date me soon!
10, 11 & 12. Love, adventure & a million lessons.
More than anything, I am grateful for the gift of love whether it be platonic, romantic or passion for the things that keep us alive. I have learned soo many lessons, gone on so many adventures and loved completely- almost dry. I am so much smarter and better than I ever have and as much as I loathed a lot of parts of 2016, I will fondly remember this year.
To the people I love, spent this year with, no longer keep in touch- thanks for keeping it real!
This post is extremely long and that is because I am extremely grateful!
Wow. I can’t believe that it’s been 12 wonderful, crazy, long years! I am literally in tears looking back at all the memories I’ve been able to share to the online world and where this thing has taken me.
I started out blogging when I was 14 years old and back then, I was just an angsty teenager bumming off free midnight dial up internet trying to figure out HTML codes and what marquee effect would go best with my awesome customized cursor. Now, I’m not only Issatalks but I’m also Issaplease which allows me to talk about other things I love which are fashion, food, travel, family- LIFE.
I am the most grateful and blessed person in the world right now to have the things and knowledge (or sometimes, the lack of) that I have right now and once again, for the 11th year, allow me to share bits and pieces of knowledge and aspirations for the year that is to come!
2017
1. Will you be looking for a new job?
In 2017, I can foresee myself taking on new responsibilities which could mean a job or which could mean something else… I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to jinx it but you’ll definitely know when it happens!
2. Will you be looking for a new relationship?
We already know what that’s like. Both of us, actually. So, no.
3. New house?
Yes! I moved places in 2016 and as much as I love my tiny room, it wouldn’t hurt to have a bigger space.
4. What will you do different in 17?
I’m definitely going to do a lot of new things in 2017 but I’m going to try and keep 2016’s mindset of never closing my doors and continually discovering & exploring new things.
5. New Years’ resolutions?
To work hard on my craft.
6. What will you not be doing in 2014?
Forgetting to count my sheep, being so indecisive and revolving my world so much around one single person.
7. Any trips planned?
China! (I honestly don’t know why I’m saying this with so much enthusiasm. lol)
8. Wedding plans?
:>
9. Major thing on your calendar?
Lots of vlogging and blogging projects, PAPA COMING HOME & other stuff
10. What can’t you wait for?
For my papa to come home!
11. What would you like to see happen differently?
Right now I just want the world to be a better place- less conflict, superficiality, entitlement, trash and traffic & more opportunities, creative outlets, respect and peace.
12. What about you will you be changing?
2016 was a rough journey which took a lot of self evaluation & reflection in order for me to find this peace which I feel like I now have towards 2017. There are so many things I wish I could have changed from the year that is about to pass but in reality, if I never experienced them, I never would have discovered this new person. So… I don’t really know what I’ll be changing in 2017. Maybe my hair color.
13. What happened in 2016 that you didn’t think would ever happen?
OH LORD, WHERE DO I EVEN BEGIN?!?
14. Will you be nice to the people you care about?
Always. If not, even more.
15. Will you dress differently this year than you did in 2016?
Sure.
16. Will you start or quit smoking?
Quit. I feel like I say this every year but the end of this year has been great in this genre. So let’s keep doing it!
17. Will you better your relationship with your family?
Of course, always.
18. Will you do charity work?
If given the opportunity, yes.
19. Will you go to bars?
Never really liked going to bars so I’m going to keep staying away from them.
20. Will you be nice to people you don’t know?
I am ALWAYS nice to people I don’t know.
21. Do you expect 2017 to be a good year for you?
Yes because 2016 sucked the life out of me!
22. How much did you change from this time ‘til now?
A whole lot. I don’t even feel like I’m the same person sometimes! Well, not really. But I feel great about myself and I feel like I am so much stronger than I ever was so that’s a great way to feel and to start the new year.
23. Do you plan have on having a child?
We will just have to see. (woah!)
24. Will you still be friends with the same people you are friends with?
I have been blessed with more friends in this life that I could ever need and if God wants to bless me with even more, than by all means, why not?
25. Major lifestyle changes?
Most likely, yes. :>
26. Will you be moving?
Hopefully by the end of 2017 but we’ll have to see how things work out.
27. What will you make sure doesn’t happen in 2017?
No more break ups in 2017, please!!
28. What are your New Year’s Eve plans?
The usual dinner with family. Lots of love & cheer for this festive season ❤
29. Will you have someone to kiss at midnight?
No matter the circumstances, no matter how much 2016 tested us- I will be kissing the same person I have been kissing for 5 years. Gaaah!
30. One wish for 2017?
For it to be kind, fruitful, travel/ adventure/ family & love filled. Only good things for 2017 and for forever.
We all have something to be grateful for this year whether if it’s the opportunity to share your thoughts to the world, to be kind to one another, to be of service, to provide others with a wonderful experience or to even just be alive! This year, Air Asia shares with us a heartfelt reminder of the things we ought to be grateful for and their thank you’s for being able to provide us with a wonderful traveling experience through their world- class service of the world’s best low- cost airline.
I would also like to take this opportunity to share 12 things that I am more than thankful for from the year 2016…
Being able to have a voice.
I am just one tiny person in this vast universe but through blogging and now, vlogging, I have the opportunity to share my thoughts; ideas & talents with the world. I never thought that my opinion or skills would be appreciated or yearned for but through your emails, comments, likes, shares & so much more, I feel like I am someone in this big bad world and that feels so great!
My favorites entries this year revolved around my personal struggles, realizations and experiences- things that I were scared to post online but surprisingly, the ones that garnered your love and appreciation. Here are a few:
I have been blessed with the gift of family & friends who have supported me all the way. Sure, I get teased a lot for being a “blogger” but they’re not just there for me when I need my photos or videos taken but most especially when it comes to being a shoulder I can cry on, designated drivers when I’m too drunk to function (yes, it’s happened!) and fulfilling my perpetual needs to discover the world.
I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for these people and I might not be able to name all of you but do know that you make my life so much better just because of your existence!
3. The Issatalks book.
Issatalks is and will always be my firstborn child. My blog is like a best friend, a sponge, an extension of who I am and sometimes, the Issa I wish I could show the world. This year Paolo gifted me with a hardbound copy of my blog entries from 2011- 2015 (but he promises to print the rest. hehe) as a way for me and us to remember our relationship when we lose our way. It’s been a rough (<- biggest understatement of the year!) for us but we’re stronger than ever and this book is more than just a reminder, it’s a dream come true. I can’t wait for the rest of the entries to be printed for my future library! ❤
4. New experiences.
2016 was a year of self realization, actualization and just finding out who I wanted to be and figuring out how to become that person. Along with this mantra, came a lot of wonderful experiences whether through travel, the people I surrounded myself with and just the things I did.
I moved back to the city, I joined more events, put myself out there some more and ventured into a new creative outlet- YOUTUBE.
5. Being under CPA MCN Adober’s Studio.
Gosh, it feels awesome to say it- I’m a Kapamilya! It’s been sort of a slow year for me in terms of vlogging as I’m still really trying to figure out what kind of content I want on my channel but given the circumstances, I am still blessed beyond comprehension as my craft and potential has been recognized by a network that breeds talent- ABS CBN. How many people get to say their under ABS CBN? A lot. lol. But still, I’m one of them!
6. Finding a support system in this industry.
A lot of you must think that being in the blogging/ vlogging industry is so “ma-showbiz” but it’s actually not the case. Sure, we have our moments, like every other group does but for the most part, we’re all just a bunch of normal, semi-crazy, insanely passionate people who share the same dreams and goals and try to help each other out!
I’ve found my rightful place in this world with my Cebu Fashion Bloggersand Adober’s Studiofamily. I’m at peace, I’m at home and gosh, I couldn’t ask for another support system like them!
7. Being able to work with different brands.
Gosh, I worked with so many brands and establishments this year sometimes I have trouble keeping up! It’s been such a hectic year and thinking about it now, I don’t even understand how I had the time to sulk and have moments of sadness. -.- I was given so many opportunities this year and I am grateful for each and everyone of them. I might not be able to name all of my favorites, but here’s to trying!
8. Being able to work with different photographers.
Honestly, what would my instagram feed and blog photos be without awesome photographers? Thank you for allowing me to be the subject of your photos, guys. I can’t wait for more collaborations in the coming year!
Blanche, you’ve taken a break from blogging to welcome a wonderful life form into this crazy world but before your baby, you brought life to a world I never knew of before- CRAZY HAIR COLORS. I want to thank you and Angelique for introducing me to something that has brought me out of my comfort zone and has given me so much fun this year. If it weren’t for you, my hair would be alive, for one (haha), but dull and untaken care of. So thank you, I miss you and please date me soon!
10, 11 & 12. Love, adventure & a million lessons.
More than anything, I am grateful for the gift of love whether it be platonic, romantic or passion for the things that keep us alive. I have learned soo many lessons, gone on so many adventures and loved completely- almost dry. I am so much smarter and better than I ever have and as much as I loathed a lot of parts of 2016, I will fondly remember this year.
To the people I love, spent this year with, no longer keep in touch- thanks for keeping it real!
This post is extremely long and that is because I am extremely grateful!
Issa Talks... Alot 